May 16, 2025
SHARPS CANNOT GET
FAIR TRIAL HERE.
CLAIM THAT WILL BE MADE IN
COURT BY LAWYERS.
Religious Fanatics to Go on Trial
Tomorrow for Killing Police
Officers Mullane and
Dalbow.
When the case against James Sharp, the self-styled "Adam God," and his wife, Melissa Sharp, charged with murder in connection with the religious fanatics' riot in front of the city hall December 8 last, is called in the criminal court tomorrow morning A. E. Martin, one of "Adam God's" attorneys, will attempt to secure a change of venue from Jackson county on the ground that the Sharps cannot obtain a fair trail in this city.
Both sides have announced they are ready for trial, and as it had been understood the defense will be insanity. Attorney Martin's actions will come as a surprise.
"I know from the sentiments expressed that my clients cannot get a fair t rial here," said Mr. Martin last night. "I shall make some charges in court Monday that may cause considerable surprise, but I expect to be able to prove what I say.
"My partner, Mr. Bailey, has been in Oklahoma securing depositions at our expense, as the Sharps are actually so poor we expect next to nothing in the way of a fee. It is because of my honest conviction that Sharp is insane and should not be railroaded into the penitentiary or to the scaffold through prejudice that I have taken up this case.
"I have summoned 200 witnesses to appear Monday in an endeavor to show 'Adam God,' as he is called, cannot get a fair trail here, and I hope to secure a change of venue.
"I shall make certain charges against jail officials concerning the manner win which juries are often prejudiced in criminal cases of this kind."
In the December riot five persons were killed. Among them were Michael Mullane and A. O. Dalbow, patrolmen on the North End beat where the shooting took place.
Mr. Martin is a member of the firm of Martin & Bailey, 439 Midland building.
Labels: Adam God sect, attorney, mental health, Midland, police
